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New Students Participate in Convocation and the Signing of the Honor Code

HIGH POINT, N.C., Aug. 19, 2013 – High Point University freshmen and their parents were welcomed to campus this weekend with a variety of events designed to provide a smooth transition and an engaging environment for HPU’s newest students.

Throughout the weekend, freshmen took part in HPU traditions including the formal Opening Convocation ceremony, where Dr. Nido Qubein, HPU president, addressed the class. The Millis Athletic and Convocation Center was full of freshmen and their parents – 2,675 in attendance total – while more family members filled other locations that allowed them to watch the event via satellite. Faculty and administrators also gathered at this event, which signals the official start of the academic year, to welcome students and to set the stage for their education that will occur in and beyond the classroom.

Qubein’s commentary inspired students and reassured parents.

“This is a values-based institution. We treasure the value of learning, the value of service and the value of generosity among others.”

Students also participated in the signing of the Honor Code. HPU is a values-based institution, and the University Honor Code signing ceremony sets the tone for academic and personal integrity, character development and the declaration of the honorable community.

“You come here armed with iPhones and iPads, but you must distinguish between information and knowledge. You want to obtain information, but you need to possess knowledge. You must learn the patience of scholarship,” said Qubein.

Students return this year to new technology and programs on campus, including a visual merchandising major and a tech lab with a 3D printer in the School of Art and Design, several new pieces of equipment in the Human Biomechanics and Physiology Laboratory, a new Department of Chemistry, and a new Department of Physics and Astronomy. The top four majors for fall 2013 are business, communication, exercise science and biology. A total of 14 new faculty positions were also filled for the fall.